China Gunpowder

Gunpowder is one of the most famous names in tea.  This quality China green tea, from Zhejiang Province, is rolled into tight pellets.  The pellets are a black-green colour and resemble lead shot – or, it seems, gunpowder, which is how this robust, invigorating and delicious tea got its name.

One advantage of Gunpowder tea is that being so tightly rolled it keeps very well, and is also economical – 2 tsp is enough for a whole pot.  The pellets almost explode in the water as the leaves expand and unroll.

Gunpowder tea is popular in the Middle East and North Africa, where it is blended with mint and large amounts of sugar to make Touareg.   Gunpowder is also drunk on its own as a delicious afternoon tea.

The tea produces a dry, rather dark green liquor with quite a strong flavour that is often described as nutty or oaked.  It is often fairly bitter.  This can be refreshing, but the flavour is brought out and improved by adding a very small amount of sugar.

Gunpowder tea is good for your teeth, Chinese researchers have discovered!  In fact, 3 cups of Gunpowder tea supplies an adult’s daily fluoride requirement.

To brew, use half a tsp per person – a little goes a long way.  Put this in a warmed pot and add freshly drawn boiling water just off the boil.  Brew for 3-4 minutes according to taste.  Drink without milk, but a very little sugar will enhance the taste.

If you love Gunpowder Tea you may also enjoy Tuareg Mint Tea, a delicious blend of Gunpowder and African Mint.